No matter where we are...The end is always YOU! (Why 'Lovely Runner' Stole My Heart in 2024)

“Is there such a thing as destiny in life? Something we can neither change nor defy. Something like inevitability.” – Im Sol

" Lovely Runner" is officially one of my all-time favorite dramas, and I can't stress this enough. This show left me blushing, giggling, swooning and crying like a baby, and the emotions it stirred within me were simply unparalleled. To be honest, it hasn't just made its way into my top ten favorites, but it's actually bumped off a couple of other shows and claimed the top spot. " Lovely Runner" has officially stolen my heart, and I can't recommend it highly enough. If you haven't watched it yet, drop everything you're doing and start now - trust me, you won't regret it!

Alright, strap in folks, because the review you're about to read is as long as a novel (seriously, you might want to grab a snack before getting started). But trust me, it's worth it, because this drama had me going through all the emotions - laughter, tears, frustration, happiness, and everything in between. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride as I take you on a journey through my thoughts on " Lovely Runner."

From the first episode to the last, this drama was a rollercoaster of emotions that left me feeling warm and fuzzy inside. The story, which revolves around a celebrity and his lifelong admirer, was beautifully executed and had me rooting for their love story at every turn. Every single character was fleshed out and well-developed, and the chemistry between the two leads was simply off the charts. So let me break down all the things that made this drama a 10/10 "must watch" for me...

CAST/ACTING:
The cast of " Lovely Runner" was simply phenomenal,top-notch, making for a truly compelling and immersive viewing experience.. Byeon Woo Seok was absolutely amazing in his role, bringing depth and charisma to Ryu Seon-Jae. His chemistry with Kim Hye Yoon, who played Im Sol in the most amazing & cute way, was palpable and their performances together truly made the drama come to life. The supporting cast was equally impressive, each actor bringing their own unique touch to their characters and adding to the richness of the story.

♥Main Leads Chemistry: The heart-warming and dreamy chemistry between the two leads of " Lovely Runner" was truly something special.It was so magnetic and believable that it added an extra layer of emotional depth to the show, making it even more enjoyable to watch. Byeon Woo Seok & Kim Hye Yoon are prolly now one of my top fav "kdrama couple" in all Dramaland!

“Given how many times we’re running into each other, isn’t the universe basically pushing us toward each other?” – Ryu Sun Jae


At this point please allow me this little fangirl moment...here we go... (1/2)
Byeon Woo Seok's performance in " Lovely Runner" was undoubtedly exceptional. After stunning audiences with his villainous role as Ryu Shi Oh in " Strong Girl Namsoon" and capturing the hearts of viewers (cause let's be honest it was the first time we were all rooting for the ruthless but charming as hell villain), his portrayal of Ryu Seon-Jae proved his versatility as an actor. As the charismatic and dreamy Ryu Seon-Jae, Byeon Woo Seok's charisma shone through and he effortlessly embodied the ideal boyfriend material, making viewers swoon and fall in love with the character. His talent for bringing complex characters to life and his ability to seamlessly switch between genres is truly impressive, and he's definitely a force to be reckoned with in the Korean entertainment industry.

CINEMATOGRAPHY:
From the cinematography to the styling, and from the beautifully shot scenes to the close-ups in " Lovely Runner" everything was exquisitely executed. The use of colors like warm reds and pinks created a romantic and dreamy atmosphere throughout the series, perfectly complementing the themes of love and fate. The camerawork was impeccable, with carefully composed shots capturing the subtle details and emotions of the characters. Close-ups, panned shots, and sweeping scenic views were all utilized to great effect, enhancing the overall visual experience of the drama and adding depth and dimension to the story. The use of close-up shots allowed for a strong emotional connection with the characters, and the stunning scenery, particularly the falling flower petals, added a sense of magic and romance to the series. The thoughtfully placed symbolism throughout the drama added layers of depth and meaning, such as the recurring theme of time and fate. These elements combined created a truly visually captivating and emotionally impactful drama.

MUSIC:
The music soundtrack for me is amongst the "Golden OST Dramas" like "Goblin", "Crash Landing on You", "Hotel del Luna", "while you were sleeping", "Moonlovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo" & rightfully so! Every song chosen for each scene was perfect & matched the mood of the scene, adding depth and feeling to the story. Songs like a"Star" by N.Flying captured the hopeful and optimistic tone of the drama, while "Like a Dream" by Minnie had a more melancholic and contemplative feel, perfectly complementing the show's themes of destiny and longing. The incorporation of "Spring snow" by 10cm and "a day" by ATEEZ's Jongho were especially noteworthy & they are hands down my faves. "Spring snow" added a touch of melancholy and longing, perfectly capturing the emotional turmoil of the characters. "a day", on the other hand, injected a dose of warmth and happiness to balance the drama's emotional depth, creating a truly memorable listening experience. Like honestly the soundtrack of " Lovely Runner" was truly one of the best ever. The songs seamlessly fit into the scenes and heightened the emotional impact of the drama. From the romantic ballads to the upbeat tracks, each song was carefully chosen to complement the storylines and characters perfectly. Whether evoking laughter, tears, or a mix of both, the soundtrack of " Lovely Runner" was a masterclass in creating the perfect atmosphere and eliciting the desired emotions from the audience.

At this point please allow me another fangirl moment...I can't help it...I'm an ATINY!
"A Day":The song's message of treasuring each and every moment aligned perfectly with the drama's themes of love, regret, and the fragility of time. The song's lyrics spoke of cherishing each day and the precious moments that make up life, themes that were central to " Lovely Runner." The uplifting and hopeful tone of the song countered the often bittersweet and melancholic moments in the drama, encapsulating the beauty and importance of savoring each day to the fullest.
ATEEZ'S very own amazing vocalist Jongho's voice in "a day" was simply angelic and heartwarming. His velvety tone added a touch of warmth to the drama's emotional rollercoaster. Each note he sang felt like a ray of sunshine piercing through the rain clouds, bringing a sense of tranquility and hope. The way he hit those high notes and transitions effortlessly between different registers was truly impressive, showcasing his exceptional vocal abilities. Simply put, Jongho's voice in " Lovely Runner" was nothing short of amazing, and every time his songs comes on, I can't help but fangirl over his talent!

WHAT I LIKED: (pretty much everything xD)
1. Heartwarming and emotional storyline and relatable characters
2. Great character development and portrayal and casting
3. Stunning cinematography and visual elements
4. Memorable & beautiful soundtrack with emotional and touching songs
5. Engaging plot with unexpected twists and turns
6. Satisfying and uplifting ending that leaves viewers feeling fulfilled and happy
7. The beautiful quotes in the dialogues!
8.Perfect chemistry between the leads that make your heart melt and steals the show

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
1.The stalker killer taxi driver plot line was not resolved in a satisfying way and seemed like a rushed afterthought.
2.Im Sol's constant avoidance and pushing away of Seon-Jae was frustrating.
3. SMLKim Tae Sung deserved a "happy ending" too :(

Overall, "Lovely Runner" really stands out as a 10/10 drama for me.I LOVED IT WITH ALL MY HEART! It's a highlight of 2024 in Kdramaland and has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. Everything about it is just perfect - the captivating storyline, lovable characters, beautiful cinematography, and memorable music. I couldn't have asked for anything more from this drama, and it's definitely left a lasting impression on me and i will most definitely watch it 100 times and cry my eyes out till i die from dehydration buried under a mountain of tissues! If you're looking for a heartwarming love story that pulls on your heartstrings and leaves you with a warm fuzzy feeling inside and if you are a sucker for "fluffiness overload-comfort" dramas like silly lil me, then "Lovely Runner" is the drama for you! ♥

“At that moment, this crossed my mind. That our fate was just going around in circles just like this Ferris wheel.” – Im Sol

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A Shop for Thrills!!!!

**DISCLAIMER: This is my first review please be kind T_T**

Are you ready to be hooked and have your breath snatched away? Well, buckle up and get ready because this is not just another action-packed drama BUT a jaw-dropping, spine-chilling high-octane action bonanza that will have you gasping for air and begging for mercy. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this wild ride! So if you haven't seen it yet, get your popcorn ready and prepare to be blown away & pray for a second season!

In “a shop for killers”, Lee Dong Wook delivers a gripping performance (is there a role this man can't play? i doubt it) as a mysterious uncle whose sudden suicide triggers a chain of events that turns the protagonist's life upside down. As she is targeted by skilled assassins, Jian must draw upon her uncle's peculiar training to survive and uncover the truth behind his death. Kim Hye Joon was also excellent, she embodied the character's resilience and bravery in the face of danger, while also showing the emotional turmoil and confusion that comes with her situation. Her chemistry with Lee Dong Wook added an extra layer of complexity and depth to the story!

The action sequences are fast-paced and intense, with several high-stakes fights and shootouts that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The use of drones and other advanced technology adds a modern twist to the traditional action scenes, making them feel fresh and exciting. The unexpected twists keep the story fresh and unpredictable, preventing it from feeling stale or cliche, they moreover serve to enhance the overall viewing experience and keep viewers engaged and emotionally invested in the storyline.Additionally, they add an extra layer of intrigue and mystery, encouraging viewers to watch until the end to uncover the truth behind each surprise.

The drama also has a dark and gritty tone, reminiscent of the 80s classic "Leon the Professional", (one of my fav movies) a film known for its violent but compelling storylines. The relationship between the uncle and niece in “a shop for killers” has some similar elements to the one found in “Leon the Professional”. Both films feature a hardened, older male figure who takes on a protective and mentoring role for a younger female character. The uncle in “a shop for killers” is depicted as a tough, skilled assassin who takes Jian under his wing, teaching her survival skills and weapon handling, much like Leon did for Mathilda in “Leon the Professional”. Their fierce bond and unwavering loyalty to each other drive the plot and leave viewers invested in their fates.

The cinematography is a standout feature, with stylish visuals that capture the intense mood of the drama. The use of dark and moody lighting creates a tense atmosphere that elevates the action sequences and builds suspense. The music in the drama is equally impressive, with a selection of tracks that perfectly complement the fast-paced action and emotional moments without taking the attention from the scenes.

And of course needless to say that Lee Dong Wook’s performance is another highlight, showcasing his versatility as an actor by playing a hardened assassin with a hidden depth and vulnerability. His portrayal of the complex and mysterious character is a true pleasure to watch. But then again are we surprised? He's one of the best k-actors in my humble opinion!

Here are some things that I liked:

1. The acting was exceptional, with Lee Dong Wook delivering a standout performance.
2. The action sequences were intense and well-executed, with plenty of suspense and excitement.
3. The cinematography was top-notch, with stunning visuals that added to the overall experience.
4. The story was intriguing and unpredictable, with plenty of surprising twists and turns.
5. The chemistry between the two main leads was added a lot of depth to their relationship.
6. The use of humor and sarcastic one-liners added a nice balance to the intense action sequences and made the drama entertaining throughout.
7. The portrayal of the uncle/niece relationship was complex and emotional, adding an extra layer of drama to the story.
8. The soundtrack was well-chosen and added to the overall atmosphere of the drama.

Here's what I didn't like** :

1. The pacing of the drama felt a bit rushed at times, especially in the later episodes.
2. Some of the subplots felt underdeveloped.
3. The ending felt somewhat unsatisfying and didn't tie up all the loose ends. (But maybe that's because there discusssions for season 2? source: https://www.soompi.com/article/1648055wpp/kim-hye-joon-and-lee-dong-wooks-a-shop-for-killers-in-talks-for-season-2 )

**These minor issues didn't detract too much from my enjoyment of the drama, as the strong points outweighed the negatives.

Overall, “A Shop for Killers” is a gripping and thrilling action-mystery drama with thirller elements that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The performances are outstanding, and the use of cinematography, music, and action sequences are top-notch. Whether you’re a fan of action, mystery, or just a well-told story, “a shop for killers” is a must-watch that will leave you feeling entertained , excited and emotionally invested!

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